Why is it called a sampler?

The English word ‘sampler’ derives from the Latin ‘exemplum’, or the old French term ‘essamplaire’, meaning ‘an example’. Before the introduction of printed designs, embroiderers and lacemakers needed a way to record and reference different designs, stitches and effects.

How can you tell if an old sampler is real?

If a sampler browns, it tends to do so naturally around the edges near the frame, but blotchy browning should raise a cautionary flag. Also, if the fabric is wrinkled as if it were twisted or bunched up and the brown spots seem to follow that pattern, there’s a good chance the browning has been added deliberately.

Are antique samplers worth anything?

On today’s antiques sampler market, American samplers are rare and command a higher value than their English counterparts. Condition is key to the value of any sampler. Samplers that are cut, re-stitched, stained or torn are not as valuable as those that are in good condition.

Why is needlepoint called a sampler?

As there were few pre-printed patterns available for needleworkers, a stitched model was needed. Whenever a needleworker saw a new and interesting example of a stitching pattern, they would quickly sew a small sample of it onto a piece of cloth – their ‘sampler’.

Why did people make samplers?

By the 1700s, samplers depicting alphabets and numerals were worked by young women to learn the basic needlework skills needed to operate the family household.

What is an antique sampler?

Antique Samplers – In a nutshell Samplers are a form of embroidery that evolved in the 17thC, used to demonstrate needlework skills. Most commonly, samplers are stitched by children, using silk or wool thread, onto a canvas ground. They often feature alphabets, numbers, verses and motifs.

How do you preserve an old sampler?

The best way to store this item is, ideally, flat and unfolded in a box such as one of these from our sponsor Hollinger Metal Edge. The sampler should be placed in the box that has been lined with acid-free, lignin-free, buffered tissue that can then be folded over it.

How do you clean an old sampler?

Wash the sampler in a bath in warm water with a little Woolite that is free of scents and color. Woolite is a nonionic detergent and will rinse out of the fabric more easily than regular detergent. Rinse at least twice in a lot of water. It will help with the dirt but will not help with the glue.

What is a vintage sampler?

Samplers are a form of embroidery that evolved in the 17thC, used to demonstrate needlework skills. Most commonly, samplers are stitched by children, using silk or wool thread, onto a canvas ground. They often feature alphabets, numbers, verses and motifs.

What is a Victorian sampler?

It was also an important skill for domestic service. A sampler is a ‘sample’ of the different stitches a girl could do and demonstrates her skill. Girls would practise different stitches, sewing on buttons, hemming, gathering, eyelet holes, pleats, patching and other sewing skills.

What age did girls make samplers?

It was believed that teaching needlework benefited girls from impoverished backgrounds since it prevented idleness and gave them employable skills. Girls could start sewing as young as 5 or 6, as long as they could hold a needle and a piece of fabric. They might make their first sampler at age 8.

What was the first sampler?

The Guardian described the Chamberlin as the first sampler, developed by the English engineer Harry Chamberlin in the 1940s. The Chamberlin used a keyboard to trigger a series of tape decks, each containing eight seconds of sound.